LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Baptist Health on Wednesday, April 9, performed its first procedure utilizing a groundbreaking technology aimed at transforming the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. The new tool, the Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy system, aims to improve early detection and provide faster access to life-saving treatments.
Physicians at Baptist Health’s hospitals in Little Rock, North Little Rock and Fort Smith use the Ion technology.
“Early detection is crucial for better survival rates,” said Kelley Hamby, chief nursing officer at Baptist Health. “With the latest advancements in imaging, genetic testing, and targeted therapies, we can now identify and treat lung cancer at its earliest and most treatable stages. As a leading health care provider in Arkansas, Baptist Health remains dedicated to enhancing the lives of their patients.”
Lung cancer diagnosis often requires biopsies of lung nodules, which can be located in difficult-to-reach areas of the lungs. As a result, many patients face the challenge of “watchful waiting” – undergoing prolonged monitoring with imaging but without definitive diagnosis, leading to increased anxiety and potential delays in treatment.
The Ion system, however, enables precise, minimally invasive biopsies even for small and hard-to-reach nodules, allowing for earlier and more accurate diagnoses.
According to the American Lung Association, Arkansas has one of the highest lung cancer incidence and mortality rates in the nation, ranking among the states with the worst lung cancer survival rates. The introduction of the Ion system is a critical step in addressing this urgent public health issue.
To learn more about the Ion system or schedule an appointment, visit Baptist-Health.com or call 1-888-BAPTIST.
About Baptist Health
For more than a century, Baptist Health has delivered all our best in health care through Christian compassion and innovative services. Baptist Health, Arkansas’ most comprehensive health care organization, is here For You. For Life. – with more than 250 points of access that include 12 hospitals; urgent care centers; a senior living community; over 100 primary and specialty care clinics; a college with studies in nursing and allied health; and a graduate residency program. It is also the largest private not-for-profit health care organization based in Arkansas, providing care through the support of approximately 11,000 employees, groundbreaking treatments, renowned physicians and community outreach programs. For more information about Baptist Health, visit Baptist-Health.com, call Baptist Health HealthLine at 1-888-BAPTIST or download the myBaptistHealth app.